Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Tonya Cross of Salisbury, NC

Tonya Cross shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Tonya , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I love puzzles! Once I start one, the hours pass by so fast and I lose track of time. I start by sorting and organizing the pieces by shape and primary color. Doing this streamlines the process of putting the pieces together. Puzzles also trigger the creative in me. I enjoy using my wit and hands to create something beautiful!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the fashion accessory designer of Accented Glory and my specialty is cowrie shell and African print designs. My pieces include hair accessories, jewelry, and handbags. I enjoy working with natural materials like seashells, hemp, wood, and leather.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My mother taught me the most about work. As a single parent, she used her gift of sewing to make a living and support our family. She worked full-time doing industrial manufacturing sewing and tailor alterations on the side. She learned many tricks of the trade from her sewing experiences. She passed down her sewing knowledge along with her great work ethics to me.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
One kind thing I would say to my younger self is “center your joy”! Many times throughout life, my creative self took the back seat. Whether it was motherhood or building a career; I neglected to nurture the creative in me. I gave various areas priority over my personal need to create. I’m so grateful that in my later years, I’ve rediscovered the things that give me joy.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
I value sacred Black spaces! I enjoy collaborating with others to create community events that centers Blackness. I recently partnered to host Return To Our Roots: Gardening, Wellness, and Shopping Experience. The focus of this event was food self sufficiency and how to grow your own food. Local Black owned businesses sponsored and vended at the event. The event had a family reunion vibe. Our guest said they felt seen, loved, and understood.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story I hope people would tell about me when I’m gone is that she loved her community! Everything that I do is centered around community. With my brand Accented Glory, creating things by hand gives me joy and peace. I believe that positive energy is passed on to each design I handcraft. That’s why I love reviews that share how my designs make someone feel. I want my customers to feel seen and loved, because each design was created with them in mind.

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